Beginning Blacksmithing - Starting with Fire
Instructors: Bruce Gilies (931-759-4615)
and Ken Gould (931-962-1303)
Friday, October 23, 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm & Saturday, October 24, 9 am to 2 pm
There are foundational skills every aspiring blacksmith
must know. First how to start and tend a coal forge; next-basic
hammer control and age old forging techniques for shaping
and forming hot steel. Students will gain comfort with these
steps, and create small utilitarian items using these new
found skills during this two day class. No experience necessary,
just the desire to try blacksmithing. Each Student should
expect to complete a minimum of 2 or more projects during
class. All materials and tools provided. Additional information
on local forges, blacksmith associations and other resources
will be discussed.
Requirements:
- Long pants with full shoe (NO tennis shoes or open toes)
- Cotton shirt with sleeves Please no synthetic materials
- polyester etc. will melt and is dangerous to your health
when the sparks fly.
- If you have your own safety glasses, please bring them.
We will provide as needed.
- A desire to learn something new and have some fun.
Class cost $30
Material fee $10
Instructor's Background:
Bruce Gilies has been a blacksmith for
over 17 years. He is past president of the Appalachian Area
Chapter of Blacksmiths, is a member of ABANA (Artistic Blacksmiths
Association North America) and owns the Lynchburg forge.
Bruce has taken several classes at John C. Campbell Folk
School and spends time there each year working with known
blacksmiths from around the country during the JCCFS "Blacksmith
Work Week".
Ken Gould has been a blacksmith for 8
years, he is a member of AACB, is news editor for the Lynchburg
forge and operates "The Irondovetail" as a side
business. Ken has taken several blacksmithing classes and
enjoys making 18th century lighting and hearthware. He also
does custom work ranging from gazing ball stands, to 10
foot high yard art, coffee tables, wine racks, metal tavern
puzzles and other fun things.
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